Madagascar
accountable MINING
Madagascar
Transparency International-Initiative Madagascar’s research reveals corruption patterns and risks in the process of awarding mining permits and licenses in Madagascar.
This research focuses predominantly on prospecting, exploration and mining permits. In addition the Chapter analysed other aspects of the permit management system, such as renewal, transformation and cancellation of existing permits.
This assessment was particularly relevant and timely for Madagascar as the process of granting mining licences has been officially on hold since 2011, providing incentives for mining companies to bypass official procedures and obtain licences through corrupt practices. Indeed, the granting of mining licences in Madagascar has become extremely arbitrary and discretionary as a result of this 2011 decision, allowing corrupt practices to flourish while discouraging more ethical investors.
TI-MG’s research revealed 19 vulnerabilities and 24 corruption risks in the current system of granting mining permits in Madagascar.
Approximately two-thirds (62.5%) of the corruption risks classified as “very high” are associated with practices contradicting the Mining Code and allowed by weaknesses in the mining licence system and an environment that encourages corruption.
TI-MG is working with all stakeholders from the Malagasy mining sector, both within the mining administration and the private sector, as well as with other civil society organisations and communities to implement the recommendations we identified to reduce priority risks, including through our contribution to the ongoing reform of the Mining Code.
Transparency International-Initiative Madagascar was part of the second cohort of Transparency International’s Accountable Mining programme.
This global programme led by Transparency International Australia aims to enhance transparency and accountability in the extractive industries by focusing specifically on the first stage of the mining sector value chain, i.e. the mining licensing process.
The programme includes a diagnostic phase and an active advocacy phase to bring about change.
Transparency International-Initiative Madagascar
Related Resources
THE MACRA TOOL
The MACRA Tool fills helps users to identify and assess the underlying causes of corruption in mining sector awards. Available in English, French, Spanish and Mandarin.
USING THE EITI STANDARD TO COMBAT CORRUPTION
This paper highlights key lessons for combatting corruption in the mining sector through effective implementation of the licence allocation disclosure requirements in the EITI Standard. Available in English, French and Spanish
MINING LICENCE PROCESS MAP
What is the process for awarding mining rights in Madagascar? What steps must the company and the government follow? This ‘map’ presents this process as a step-by-step guide. It sheds light on a process that is often complex and complicated, rendering it more transparent.